Using blood tests and imaging to track treatment response in multiple myeloma

Integrating liquid biopsy-based epigenetic and imaging modalities to evaluate disease response in multiple myeloma

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-10893547

This study is looking at how blood tests and imaging scans can work together to help doctors better understand how well treatments are working for people with multiple myeloma, making it easier and less invasive than traditional methods.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10893547 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how liquid biopsies, which analyze blood samples, can be combined with imaging techniques like PET/CT scans to better evaluate how patients with multiple myeloma respond to treatment. By focusing on measurable residual disease (MRD), the study aims to provide a less invasive and more accurate method for monitoring disease progression and treatment effectiveness. The approach seeks to overcome limitations of traditional bone marrow biopsies, which can be invasive and may not always provide a complete picture of the disease. Patients will be monitored through blood tests that assess specific epigenetic markers alongside imaging results.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with multiple myeloma who are undergoing treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have multiple myeloma or are not receiving treatment for the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and less invasive monitoring of multiple myeloma, improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using liquid biopsies for monitoring cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective for multiple myeloma as well.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.